Consumer electronics biz opposes infotainment ban

Group says NTSB rec doesn't consider other distractions

The consumer electronics industry is forming a defensive line for in-vehicle entertainment systems.

On the heels of the National Transportation Safety Board recommending the development of technology features that disable the functions of driver accessible, in-car electronics devices when a vehicle is in motion, the Consumer Electronics Association voiced opposition to the proposal.

“There is no real-world evidence to support such a blanket prohibition unless one would also ban other potential distractions, such as eating, drinking, applying make-up and engaging with children while in the vehicle,” the group said in a statement.

The debate comes as virtually every major auto company is rolling out (or working on) new infotainment systems for their vehicles — most with touch screen interfaces and an increasing number with Internet connectivity.